Soak up the beauty of fall in Summit County by taking a family-friendly train ride on the historic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR).

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park train ride weaves its way through 26 miles of track, offering panoramic views of Cuyahoga Valley, timeless towns and a kaleidoscope of fall colors. Booking a ride with CVSR is a must if you’re visiting Summit County.

History and Overview

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a nonprofit heritage railroad that strives to preserve and restore vintage railcars and locomotives, while also making the Cuyahoga Valley National Park more accessible.

As one of the most scenic train rides in Ohio, it has served visitors for more than 100 years. Train enthusiasts, fall foliage lovers and families will delight in one of the nation’s most unique scenic national park experiences.

Ride Schedules

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a two-hour loop departing from Peninsula or a 3.5-hour full loop from Rockside, Peninsula or Akron’s Northside Depot. Either option is a great choice for fall color enthusiasts, and you’ll pass a variety of stunning natural landscapes along the way.

The train departs daily with rides starting at 9 a.m. ET. You can view the full ride schedule here.

Boarding Locations

CSVR offers convenient boarding locations from Independence to Akron. Free parking is available near the stations. Passengers are asked to arrive 45 minutes before the listed departure time to allow plenty of time for parking, traffic and weather delays.

Summit County boarding locations include Boston Mill Visitor Center, Peninsula Depot, Indigo Lake Station, Botzum Station and Akron Northside Station. A customer service office can be found at Peninsula Depot.

Nearby Attractions

Travel through the center of Cuyahoga Valley National Park aboard one of the oldest and longest U.S. tourist railway excursions, while discovering incredible attractions along the way.

Adventurists, history enthusiasts, foodies and families alike can uncover a wide range of activities along the CVSR route. 

Depart at Peninsula Depot for mom-and-pop restaurants and a boutique coffee shop as well as hiking opportunities and bird watching trails that range from beginner-friendly to challenging. Rent a bicycle at Century Cycles to explore the surrounding region at your own pace. Hit the Towpath Trail, which runs through Peninsula — it’s great for walking, biking and running. Then make your way to Szalay’s Farm & Market, a perfect stop for fall fun.

Disembark at Akron Northside Station for a bite at one of the local Italian eateries. Hike to Mustill Store Museum and Cascade Locks Park on the Towpath Trail, or stop by the nonprofit Akron Zoo, home to more than 2,000 animals. Visit Northside Marketplace for a fantastic and unique shopping experience, and don’t miss Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio, just steps away, featuring handmade ceramic art pieces.

Seasonal Events

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers seasonal events all year long. Bingo, trivia and murder mystery rides occur throughout the year, as well as family-friendly adventures with cookie making and wildlife education.

This fall, climb aboard for Oktoberfest on September 19 and enjoy locally brewed craft beers, Bavarian bites and polka music.

Price and Tips for Families

Tickets for Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad start at $18 for adults and $13 for children. Kids under the age of two can ride free. Foldable strollers that can be stored safely are allowed on the train, but pets aren’t permitted onboard (with the exception of service animals).

The train also has a variety of seating options to choose from, including coach, first class and lounge, as well as ADA-compliant seating with a handicap-accessible car that is equipped with a wheelchair lift.

Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, especially for the busy month of October. Peak fall foliage draws thousands of visitors to marvel at Cuyahoga Valley’s stunning landscape.